Military conflict in the Middle East is causing widespread disruption to global travel, fuel supply and transport security. These impacts extend well beyond the region itself and may affect travellers even if their destination is not in the Middle East.
Travellers should expect disruption, delays and sudden changes to travel conditions, and should closely monitor official travel advice for all destinations and transit points.
Travel and aviation impacts
Ongoing conflict has led to airspace closures, flight cancellations and rerouting across large parts of the Middle East, with knock‑on effects globally. Airlines are avoiding affected airspace and, in some cases, suspending services entirely. Even short‑notice closures can cause cascading delays across international airline networks.
Flights between Europe, Asia, Australia and the Pacific are particularly affected due to the Middle East’s role as a major global aviation transit hub. Rerouted flights may involve longer travel times, additional refuelling stops and increased risk of delays or cancellations.
Airports, transport infrastructure and surrounding areas in affected countries have been struck during the conflict. Airspace can close with little or no warning, borders may close, and flights can stop suddenly.
Fuel supply disruptions
The conflict has disrupted global fuel supply chains, particularly aviation fuel. Restrictions on shipping through key maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, have reduced the movement of oil and refined fuel products and driven sharp increases in jet fuel prices.
As a result, many countries are introducing fuel‑preservation measures. Travellers may experience:
- flight delays or cancellations due to fuel shortages
- changes to flight schedules or aircraft types
- disruptions to local transport services
- shortages or reduced availability of essential goods such as food, water and medicines
These measures can be introduced or changed at short notice.
Maritime and supply‑chain security impacts
Increased security risks to commercial shipping in the Middle East and nearby waterways are affecting global supply chains. Shipping companies are rerouting vessels to avoid high‑risk areas, leading to longer transit times, higher transport costs and reduced availability of fuel and goods in some locations.
These disruptions contribute to broader travel impacts, including higher airfares, constrained freight capacity and delays in cargo movements that support tourism and essential services.
Transiting the Middle East
“Do not travel” advice also applies to transiting affected locations, including airport layovers. Even if you do not plan to leave the airport, transiting through a country under “Do not travel” advice carries significant risk. You may be unable to continue your journey or leave the country if conditions deteriorate.
If you are already in, or unexpectedly transit through, a high‑risk location:
- minimise time spent in the country
- avoid high‑risk or crowded locations
- follow instructions from local authorities and airlines
- monitor official advice closely, as conditions can change rapidly.
What travellers should do
If you are planning travel:
- Read and follow travel advice for all destinations and transit points, not just your final destination.
- Register for travel advice updates: SafeTravel registration.
- Monitor airline communications closely.
- Contact your airline or travel agent about alternative routes, re‑booking or refunds if your itinerary includes affected areas.
- Do not cancel flights until you have received professional advice, as options may be limited.
- Check your travel insurance carefully for coverage relating to conflict, delays, cancellations and changes to travel advice levels.
- Reconfirm flights within 48 hours of departure, even if your travel does not include the Middle East, as global disruptions may still affect your plans.
Airline and insurance call centres are under significant pressure. Travellers should expect longer wait times when seeking assistance.
Who is most affected
Some people are more likely to feel the impacts of the conflict than others.
People flying through the Middle East
If your trip involves a stopover in the Middle East, your flight may be delayed, rerouted or cancelled at short notice. This can happen even if your final destination is somewhere else. If a country has “Do not travel” advice, that advice also applies to airport transit and layovers.
Long‑haul travellers
Flights between Europe, Asia, Australia and the Pacific often pass through or near the Middle East. Because airlines are avoiding some airspace, these flights may take longer and are more likely to change or be disrupted.
People with tight travel plans
If you have short connections, fixed dates, cruises, tours or events to attend, you may be more affected by delays or missed connections.
Travellers going to places with fuel shortages
Fuel supply problems can affect flights, buses, taxis and other local transport. In some places, shortages may also affect the availability of everyday goods and services.
Travel agents, tour operators and organisations
Frequent airline schedule changes, limited rebooking options and rising costs are making it harder to manage complex or multi‑leg trips, especially at short notice.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Will this affect my travel if I’m not going to the Middle East?
Yes, it might. The Middle East is a major crossroads for global flights. Because airlines are avoiding some areas and fuel supplies are under pressure, travellers around the world may experience longer flight times, delays, cancellations or higher fares, even on routes far from the conflict.
Is it safe to transit through the Middle East?
If a country has “Do not travel” advice, this includes transiting through its airports. Airspace can close suddenly, flights can stop, and travellers may be unable to continue their journey or leave if the situation changes.
Why are flights being cancelled or rerouted?
Airlines are responding to airspace closures, security risks and fuel shortages. Flying longer routes uses more fuel and aircraft time, which reduces how many flights airlines can operate and increases the chance of disruption.
Could fuel shortages affect my trip?
Yes. Fuel supply problems can lead to flight delays or cancellations, fewer transport options at your destination, and disruptions to everyday services. New restrictions can be introduced with little warning.
What should travel agents and organisations do?
Travel agents and organisations should:
- keep checking official travel advice for destinations and transit points
- warn clients that plans may change suddenly
- regularly review airline rebooking and refund rules
- check travel insurance policies for cover related to conflict, delays and cancellations
Should I cancel my trip now?
Don’t cancel your flights until you’ve spoken with your airline, travel agent or insurer. Options can be limited, and advice may change quickly. Check your flights close to departure and keep monitoring updates.
Useful links
